Celestial Rewards

[TERRAVANE – FORWARD BASE, DAYLIGHT]

The air shimmered—like heat rising from sacred stones. A swirl of golden light descended into the forward base, forcing even the bravest soldiers to their knees with instinctual reverence.

The first divine messenger of Sovereign Solien had arrived.

Clad in layered robes woven from sunbeams and stellar thread, his face glowed with a soft radiance as he hovered above the ground. A halo of celestial rings floated around his back—each one slowly orbiting in divine rhythm.

He bowed deeply before Alter, who stood calmly in his mythic armor, Astral Requiem resting on his back.

"By the decree of Sovereign Solien, Radiant Sovereign of the Eternal Flame, I bring this bestowment unto you—Alter, honored as the foremost mortal contributor in the Seraveth campaign."

He unfurled a scroll of divine origin, presenting it before Alter. The list of Celestial-tier equipment glowed in the air, rotating gently, each name etched in gold and sung by the system itself.

Alter scanned it.

There were artifacts of radiant armor, celestial tomes, lightforged polearms, and reality-piercing bows—but his eyes settled on a single line:

Starsever – Celestial Katana of the Azure Flame

The moment he focused on it, a swirl of golden wind coalesced before him. A long katana, elegant and deadly, hovered into the air.

Its blade shimmered with an azure sheen, glowing with embedded celestial runes. The hilt was simple—no guard, no flourish—only functionality wrapped in grace. Unlike Astral Requiem's void-forged darkness, this sword emanated divine golden light, with subtle pulses of holy mana coursing along its edge.

[Celestial Weapon: Starsever – Azure Flame]

Type: Celestial Long Katana

Visuals: Azure blade with radiant sheen, golden-holy glow, runeless matte hilt, thin celestial script down its length.

Effects:

Holy Vampiric Edge – Regenerates 7% HP and 5% MP on every successful strike.

Bane of Darkness – Deals 5x damage against demons, voidspawn, and all dark-aligned entities.

Core Overload Wave – Absorbs elemental mana while striking. Can be released in a Reality-Slicing Wave that ignores conventional defenses.

Lightbend Activation – Renders blade invisible for 10 strikes. Each becomes unblockable. Cooldown: 15 seconds.

Divine Tempo – Increases attack speed by 4x while active.

Judgmental Precision – Boosts critical strike chance by 70%.

Alter's hand hovered above the blade...

The moment he touched the hilt, light surged upward like a comet trail, and the katana responded to him like it had found its destined wielder. He sheathed it across his back—beside Astral Requiem. One void-born, the other light-born.

A perfect balance.

As the divine glow calmed, the messenger's gaze turned. His eyes widened.

"I sense others present… they too were on the contribution scroll."

He stepped forward, eyes narrowing with pleased surprise.

"You must be Finn Whiteshadow, and Mira Whiteshadow. And… Blazebloom."

The three stood at attention—nervous but honored.

The messenger raised his hands, a pair of glowing sigils appearing over Finn and Mira. "For your contribution, Sovereign Solien bestows upon you the Blessing of the Flame's Will."

But something went wrong.

The sigils suddenly shifted color—gold turning silver, then deep azure. The messenger's expression darkened in alarm.

"W-Wait… they've already been blessed by Solien. This... this shouldn't—"

The blessings pierced into Finn and Mira's bodies like radiant needles of light.

Their bodies glowed, but no pain followed. Instead—a System Notification.

[System Update – Divine Blessing Mutation Detected]

Name: Whiteshadow – Finn & Mira

Previous Blessing: Solien's Light – Tier 1

Modified Blessing: Flame's Will – Variant Twin Resonance

Effects:

Max Level Cap increased to 500

EXP Gain x2

Damage vs. Dark Affinity Enemies x2

Synchronization Effect: When fighting side by side, gain +20% agility and +15% damage

Celestial Mutation: Possible evolution triggered at future divine convergence

The divine messenger blinked.

"...This is unheard of."

Then he turned to Blazebloom—who, standing in humanoid form, arms crossed, gave a smug grin as if waiting for his part.

The messenger floated closer. "For you, guardian of flame and loyalty—Solien grants the Blessing of the Ember Titan."

As the radiant sigil marked his chest, flames burst out—but rather than burn, they wrapped around his body like glowing armor.

[System Notice – Blazebloom Granted Blessing of the Ember Titan]

Effects:

Gain Celestial Resistance: 50% damage resistance to all magical attacks

Flames no longer harm allies; instead, buffs nearby allies with fire resistance and regeneration

Passive: Radiant Emberform – Temporary transformation allows flight and radiant-based attacks

Future trait: May ascend into Celestial Beast upon fulfilling loyalty conditions to divine wielder

The divine messenger stepped back.

"My duties are fulfilled. I shall return to the heavens to report these... unique anomalies."

He bowed again and vanished in a burst of starlight.

Alter looked at Finn, Mira, and Blazebloom—who stood blinking at their glowing hands, pulsing with divine warmth.

"...Well," Alter muttered, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "I guess I'm not the only one getting overpowered gifts."

Scene: The Blessings of Dual Decrees – Synchronicity Ascended

Location: Fort Mythral, Seraveth – Courtyard of Starlight

The sun had long dipped below the horizon, but Fort Mythral pulsed with life.

Banners fluttered. The air was brisk. The faint scent of night blossoms carried on the wind, mingling with the subtle hum of mana that danced across the training grounds where the Twelve Commanders had gathered.

They stood in a broad circle, each commander lit by the runic stones embedded in the courtyard floor. The atmosphere, though relaxed from the earlier celebrations, shifted the moment the first ripple in space tore quietly open.

A divine circle manifested mid-air. Sacred glyphs spun in perfect harmony—and through it stepped a familiar being clad in flowing robes of sun-draped silk: the First Divine Messenger, bearing Solien's sigil over his heart.

His arrival prompted immediate stillness. Conversations ceased. Eyes turned.

"I bring forth the will of Sovereign Solien," the messenger intoned, his voice serene and resonant. "Those who stood against the demon tides shall receive the blessings they have earned."

The Twelve lowered their heads respectfully.

Each had once received Solien's grace—but this decree came anew. Their participation in closing the rift, their flawless coordination, their roles as generals under Takayoshi and disciples under Alter—it all mattered now.

And the blessing responded.

Each commander was enveloped in radiant light. Runes, specific to their class and soul affinity, spiraled around their bodies as golden inscriptions etched themselves onto their equipment and skin.

[SYSTEM NOTICE]

You have received: Evolved Blessing of Solien – Commander Tier

– EXP Gain: 3x

– Damage vs. Dark Affinity Enemies: 5x

– Synchronicity Effect: Increases individual power by +20% per additional Commander within 30 meters (Max: +220%)

– Additional Effects: Based on Class Archetype

Just as the light began to fade—

A second divine gate opened.

The Second Divine Messenger arrived, bewildered by the presence of the first. The air trembled with awkward tension as the two messengers locked eyes in confusion.

"I… come bearing Solien's decree," the second messenger stammered. "To bestow blessings upon the Twelve Commanders."

"You… what?" the first blinked. "I just—"

But the decree shimmered again.

Both scrolls bore Solien's crest. Both bore identical orders.

And thus, the Second Blessing descended—unintentionally compounding the first.

A surge of divine light slammed down like a heavenly wave.

The Commanders shouted in surprise as a second layer of Solien's energy merged with the first, rewriting even deeper into their souls.

[SYSTEM NOTICE – Blessing Mutation]

Solien's Dual Decree has triggered a Synchronicity Ascension event!

– Level Cap Raised: 750

– Damage vs. Dark Affinity Enemies: +500%

– EXP Gain: 3x

– Synchronicity Effect Updated:

When two or more Commanders fight together, their combat effectiveness increases exponentially.

→ +25% Strength, Agility, and Intelligence per Commander present.

→ Shared skill cooldown reduction: 20%

→ Shared resistances to status effects.

– Unique Blessing Effects: Manifested per individual Commander.

The Commanders staggered slightly.

Selene's hand grasped the hilt of her training blade as it shimmered with layered runes. Revyn's shadow warped, spreading into multiple flickers. Mira Snowveil's frost aura crystallized mid-air, reflecting mirrored versions of herself. Every member stood changed—amplified.

"…He did it again…" the first divine messenger muttered, black lines forming on his cheek.

"The decree said one evolved blessing," the second whispered, stunned.

"And now they have two," a dry voice answered from behind.

Both messengers turned to see Takayoshi, arms folded, expression unreadable.

"Twice-blessed, and twice as ridiculous," he muttered, then looked to the Twelve with a small grin. "Good. Let's see how many divine messengers they break next."

The Twelve Commanders stood in silence—then one by one, began to laugh.

Mira Snowveil: "We're going to need larger enemies…"

Darius grinned. "Or stronger drinks."

Selene's gaze, calm but faintly glowing, turned eastward. She didn't speak, but in her eyes was the echo of Alter's promise—and now, a power worthy to stand beside him.

The courtyard pulsed again, this time not with divine light—but purpose.

Selene Virellia – Vanguard Commander (Swordswoman)

Divine Effects:

Radiant Arc Retribution

→ When Selene parries or perfectly blocks an attack, she instantly releases a crescent-shaped shockwave of radiant energy toward the attacker, dealing 250% weapon damage and applying Armor Shatter (-30% defense for 5s).

Cooldown: 10 seconds.

Celestial Vanguard's Calling

→ For every nearby ally (within 10 meters), Selene gains +8% attack speed and +5% magic resistance, stacking up to 5 times. When at full stacks, her next sword skill becomes uninterruptible and gains bonus divine damage.

Blessing Effects – Revyn Mistclaw

Veilstep Execution

→ Grants +250% bonus damage to all attacks made within 2 seconds after using a movement or teleportation skill. Can trigger once every 10 seconds.

Phantom Shift (Replaces Fade Reversal)

→ Dashes in any direction with near-instant speed, briefly becoming untargetable for 0.8 seconds during the dash. Cooldown: 6 seconds.

→ If used while stealthed, it extends stealth duration by +3 seconds and adds Shadow Echo: next skill leaves behind a shadow clone that mimics the move at 50% damage.

Darius Coalbrand – Shield Commander (Tank Division)

Aegis Rebound: Reflects 30% of blocked damage back to attackers.

Iron Wall Pulse: Grants a 5-second invulnerability shield to allies within 5 meters when dropping below 30% HP (cooldown: 90 sec).

4. Mira Snowveil – Frostweaver Commander (Mage Division)

Absolute Frost Halo: Ice spells now generate lingering frost zones that reduce enemy movement by 50%.

Frozen Time Seal: Once per battle, she may stop time in a 5-meter area for 2 seconds (does not affect allies).

5. Thorne Ironstride – Warborn Commander (Heavy Infantry)

Seismic Momentum: Each step builds kinetic force, granting +5% damage per second of uninterrupted movement (max +50%).

Cragborn Endurance: Passive health regeneration increases by +500% when HP is below 20%.

6. Arinelle Dawnwhisper – Spirit Caller Commander (Summoner Division)

Bonded Blessing: Summoned spirits receive 50% of her buffs and healing.

Nature's Chain: When a summon dies, a portion of its power transfers to the next summoned creature (+20% attack/duration).

7. Cidros Vane – Arcblade Commander (Spellsword Division)

Arc Overflow: Channeling lightning blade strikes creates chain lightning arcs to 2 nearby enemies.

Twinblade Cascade: Each alternate strike reduces cooldowns of spells by 0.5 seconds.

8. Ilyra Faen – Warden Commander (Defensive Support Division)

Blessed Anchor Field: Allies within 10 meters resist knockback, status effects, and forced movement.

Sanctuary Bloom: Healing spells leave behind a healing zone (3s duration) restoring 10% max HP to those who enter.

9. Garran Flamecoil – Pyre Commander (Siege/Fire Division)

Infernal Core Detonation: Explosive spells cause afterburns, dealing 30% total damage over 5 seconds.

Burning Channel: Holding a spell for 1.5s empowers the next cast to pierce resistances (cooldown: 30 sec).

10. Sorei Windshaper – Scout Commander (Recon & Archery)

Twinned Quiver: Every third arrow fired generates a phantom duplicate that deals 50% damage.

Aerial Mark: Marked enemies take +25% ranged damage from all allies.

11. Veyna Lux – Crystal Commander (Utility & Enchantment Division)

Crystal Flux Mantle: Periodically generates a barrier that absorbs up to 20% max MP as damage (scales with Intelligence).

Lattice Surge: Enchantments applied to weapons grant +15% elemental amplification.

12. Caelum Dray – Skyreach Commander (Aerial Division)

Heavenstrike Momentum: Diving attacks deal 4x damage and cause small shockwaves on landing.

Cloudstep Grace: Gains triple jumps in midair and can hover for up to 3 seconds.

Scene: Divine Detour – Wiping Solien's Vault Clean

The jagged cliffs of the Southern Veil trembled beneath quiet gales as Takayoshi moved alone through the twilight, wind tugging at his cloak. Each step echoed lightly across the rock-strewn pass. He had traveled far, unbothered by demons, monsters, or even fate.

Until now.

From the heavens above, two streaks of golden light thundered down like meteor strikes, halting him in his tracks. The dust settled, and there stood two Divine Messengers, robes ablaze with radiant script, wings folded tight behind them, scrolls unrolling in sync.

"In accordance with Sovereign Solien's Decree," the first intoned, "Takayoshi of Twin Echo Soul, bearer of high contributions to the Realm of Mortals, is hereby granted the right to select one Celestial Item of his choosing."

The second messenger added, "This recognition stems from your crucial role in sealing the demon rifts and felling grand demon generals."

Takayoshi blinked once.

And immediately—he shared vision and senses with Alter.

—

In Terravane, Alter dropped the piece of enchanted ore he was inspecting.

"…He's getting a reward too?" Alter muttered.

A sly grin twisted his lips. He licked them slowly. "Oh… ohhhh yes…"

Alter's consciousness surged through the connection. "Takayoshi," he said, calm but gleefully dangerous, "don't you dare waste this. We're harvesting Solien's vault today."

He scanned the now-familiar List of Celestial Items. His eyes narrowed.

"Six more armor sets? Labeled as one item set?"

Dark lines slid down his face.

"This celestial bureaucracy is a joke."

He pointed. "That one. Female armor—Seraphic Aegis – Vestments of the Dawnborne Oath—give it to Selene. She'll need it for the coming trials."

Then his eyes locked on something else.

A Sword and Shield – 1 Item Set, glittering on the list like a cosmic misprint.

"…What kind of listing is this?" Alter groaned.

Black lines streaked harder.

He grinned again. "Perfect."

—

The Divine Messengers were locked in a silent, twitching standoff as Takayoshi calmly relayed the selections.

"I will take the Sword and Shield – 1 Item Set and the Female Celestial Armor – 1 Item Set," he said with divine-level deadpan delivery.

"W-Wait—" the first messenger began, flustered. "That's two—"

"It says 1 item set," Takayoshi replied, blankly.

The second messenger raised his hand solemnly. "It qualifies under decree. Sovereign Solien's own terminology has… doomed us."

"Your vault is bleeding, Solien," Alter muttered across the link, chuckling.

As both messengers handed over the artifacts with stiff, resigned movements, black lines covered their faces like divine rain streaks.

Takayoshi accepted the sword and shield with quiet reverence. Behind the link, Alter nodded approvingly. "That shield will pair with Selene's style. I'll handle adjustments later. This armor set… perfect fit."

The wind blew through the Southern Veil once more.

But this time, the gods themselves felt the chill.

Scene: A Gift Under Moonlight – Selene's Celestial Moment

The stars above Fort Mythral glittered like thousands of watching eyes, and the cool night air of Seraveth brushed softly through the battlements. Lanterns flickered across the walls, and the distant clang of blades on the training ground echoed faintly—an anthem of discipline even after dark.

But the moment Alter teleported in, time seemed to stutter.

Voices halted. Feet froze. Even the night wind held its breath.

"The hell—he's back already?!" Darius whispered from a corner of the yard, his greatshield half-raised in disbelief.

"That's the third divine-level event today…" Mira Snowveil muttered, clutching her frost staff. "Two messengers and now him? Did someone reset the world?"

Selene turned mid-swing, her eyes wide as Alter strode across the grounds, the pale moon casting silver across his dark cloak.

"…Master?" she said softly.

He didn't smile, but his gaze was unmistakably warm.

"We need to talk," Alter said plainly.

The other commanders perked up like wolves at a howl.

"Oh, this is happening," Veyna Lux whispered, eyes sparkling.

Revyn was already scribbling notes behind his cloak. "Ten gold says it's a confession."

"Twenty it's an engagement," Mira Snowveil grinned.

"Fifty it's both," added Caelum, floating upside down with crossed arms.

Selene flushed, but nodded at Alter. "Alright…"

The teasing voices faded behind her as the two walked toward the inner wing. But halfway down the corridor, Alter glanced at her and spoke:

"…Can we talk in your quarters?"

Selene stopped.

Eyes wide. Expression unreadable. Her voice caught.

"…W-What?"

Alter blinked. Then paled.

"No! Not—not like that." He turned fast, holding his hand up. "That came out wrong. I meant—I have something to give you. A gift. But I didn't want to make a scene out there."

Selene stared at him.

The words sank in.

Then something in her smile cracked.

"…Oh," she said. Her tone was quiet, almost disappointed. "I see…"

She lowered her gaze, brushing past him gently. "Come then, Master. This way."

Alter paused, realizing her subtle change in mood.

They walked the rest of the way in silence.

Inside Selene's Quarters – Fort Mythral, Seraveth

Her room was immaculate—an organized sanctuary of clean wooden walls, a modest bed, a stand for her twin swords, and a moonlight-silvered balcony that opened to the north sky.

Selene stood by the window, her back to him.

"…So," she said quietly, "what is this gift, Master?"

Alter didn't answer immediately. Instead, he retrieved the dimensional storage sphere from his side, and with a soft pulse of golden-blue mana, the Celestial Armor Set and Celestial Sword & Shield Set emerged—floating gently midair.

Their light filled the room.

Selene turned—and froze.

The armor was breathtaking: elegant yet divine, gleaming with protective aether-threaded plating designed not just for defense but command. Feminine, battle-ready, and majestic in its form, it radiated the same brilliance Selene always carried—just now made manifest.

And then the sword and shield—a paired set etched with luminous runes, the shield styled like a crescent moon over a rising dawn, the blade thin and radiant, meant for speed, precision, and crushing holy strikes.

Selene's lips parted in disbelief.

"…I… I don't understand," she said. "This is—this is for me?"

Alter nodded.

"These were your rewards," he said. "Takayoshi claimed them on your behalf. I teleported the moment I could to deliver them."

Selene stepped forward slowly, eyes shimmering.

"…You traveled back… just to give me this?"

"I said I would protect you," Alter said. "This is part of that."

She reached toward the armor with trembling fingers, then drew her hand back.

"…It's too much."

"No," Alter replied. "It's just enough."

A long silence followed.

Selene's shoulders trembled—not with sadness, but emotion.

"…Thank you," she whispered.

Then—suddenly—she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him.

It was brief.

But Alter felt the way she clung to him, just for a second longer than expected.

"…Thank you, Alter."

He said nothing.

But he closed his eyes… and gently returned the embrace.

Scene: Moonlit Confession – Selene's Celestial Surrender

The armor glowed faintly where it rested, silver and gold etched with divine luster, but it was Selene's quiet warmth that lingered most in Alter's thoughts.

She hadn't let go since the embrace. Her arms were still around him, her breath calm now, but her heart unmistakably present.

"…You should try the armor on," he finally said, voice low.

Selene stirred against him. Slowly, she let go.

"I will," she said. "Wait… can you stay for a moment?"

Alter paused, one foot already turned toward the door.

"…Of course."

A hush settled.

Then—quiet rustling. Shifting cloth. The faint clink of belt buckles.

He blinked. "That was fast—"

"Alright," Selene said softly.

He turned.

And froze.

She was standing there… illuminated in moonlight, her silhouette almost ethereal in its beauty. Her skin shimmered with the silvery glow that bathed the room, every inch of her touched by starlight. Her arms were drawn up, covering her chest modestly, but it did little to hide the curve of her form or the tremble of her breath.

"Selene…?" he whispered.

Her blush deepened, but her gaze held.

"I didn't want to wear something divine… until I shared something real."

She stepped forward—each step slow, vulnerable, but sure.

Alter, despite himself, backed away until his shoulders brushed against the wall. His heartbeat, usually measured and composed, began to falter.

She stopped in front of him—bare inches away.

The scent of her—floral, gentle, unmistakably her—wrapped around him like memory.

"I've already given my heart," Selene whispered. "Now… I offer all of me."

She leaned forward, resting her forehead against his chest. Her arms slid around his waist, drawing him in as her bare skin pressed lightly against him.

He inhaled sharply.

Her eyes met his again.

So close.

So radiant.

The silence between them wasn't empty. It pulsed—soft, vibrant, alive. The moonlight drifting through the high-vaulted windows washed everything in a pale, argent glow, catching on the silver ridges of Alter's armor and the soft shimmer of Selene's skin.

Her form was still pressed lightly to his, but now without the weight of metal between them. No breastplate. No cloak. No sword at her hip. Just her. Vulnerable, open, real.

"Selene…" he whispered again, the word catching somewhere between awe and hesitation.

Her breath trembled, but not from fear.

She smiled faintly, and it was the kind that struck deeper than any blade. "Do you remember the first time you touched my hand? You were afraid… like this."

Alter's fingers brushed her waist, hesitant still. "I wasn't afraid of you," he murmured. "I was afraid of wanting something I didn't think I deserved."

Her smile deepened, sad and luminous. "Then let me be the one to want you now."

The breath left him.

She reached up and cradled the side of his face with both hands. Her thumbs traced the line of his jaw, and her lips hovered just shy of his—close enough to steal warmth, not quite enough to steal breath.

He didn't move.

She kissed him.

Soft. Sure. Reverent.

Alter's hands closed gently around her waist, anchoring her to him as if the weight of her touch alone could hold back every storm. She deepened the kiss, and something within him gave way—like a dam cracking open beneath quiet pressure.

His arms lifted her once more, cradling her effortlessly as her legs coiled around his waist. They moved—slowly, carefully—toward the bed at the center of the chamber, woven from obsidian-rooted wood and draped in silk the color of dawnlight.

He laid her down as if she were spun from sky.

She looked up at him—hair fanned like a halo, moonlight dancing across her collarbones—and he forgot for a moment how to breathe.

"You don't have to hold back," she whispered, fingers tracing the lines of his arms, the glow of divine marks still etched into his skin. "Not with me."

He didn't reply.

Instead, he lowered himself—forehead against hers, his hands braced beside her, his presence enveloping.

The second kiss was deeper. Less restrained.

Her fingers threaded into his hair. His lips moved down her jaw, pausing at the hollow of her throat. She arched toward him, drawing in a breath as his touch trailed across her ribs, then down her side, slow and reverent.

Outside, the wind whispered against the windows.

Within, time melted.

Every caress was gentle, intentional—guided by memory and meaning rather than urgency. Their rhythm was quiet, breath-linked. A slow unfolding.

Her voice broke once in a sigh as he drew her closer still, their bodies aligning beneath the shroud of silk and light.

"Alter…"

Her name echoed softly in his mind—carved deeper with every movement, every quiet surrender of space between them.

There was no rush.

No firestorm of lust to consume them.

Only the warm, celestial quiet of something sacred.

And when they found stillness again—limbs tangled, breath mingling—Selene rested her head against his chest, listening to the soft thunder of his heartbeat beneath her palm.

"I was always yours," she whispered.

"I know," Alter replied, voice hushed. "And I'll never forget it."

Outside the window, the stars wheeled gently overhead.

And within the chamber, held in moonlight and memory, they lay—two halves of the same vow, sealed not in flame or war… but in love.

The Next Morning

Warm sunlight poured softly through the tall windows of Selene's quarters, painting the room in gold and quiet peace.

Alter stirred first.

His eyes opened to find Selene still sleeping, her silver hair strewn like silk across the pillow, one hand resting gently over his chest.

The divine armor still sat untouched at the edge of the room—but in this moment, nothing seemed more celestial than the woman sleeping beside him.

He reached up and brushed a loose strand of hair from her face.

She smiled faintly in her sleep.

"…Thank you," Alter whispered.

Scene: Commander Commotion – The Radiant Blush of Selene

Fort Mythral's courtyard stirred to life with the rustle of banners, the clang of morning drills, and the comforting scent of fresh-baked bread wafting from the mess hall. Yet amidst all the usual activity, there was an unmistakable shift in the air.

A gleam.

A glow.

A soft, celestial shimmer that followed Selene Virellia wherever she walked.

She had just entered the courtyard, wearing a simple tunic and leggings, her silver hair bound loosely at the nape, still slightly tousled from sleep—but her entire presence was different.

Her skin held a healthy luster, almost sun-kissed.

Her eyes sparkled more than usual.

Even her steps seemed lighter, though she moved with the same graceful discipline as ever.

This, naturally, did not go unnoticed.

Revyn Mistclaw narrowed his eyes from his perch on the balcony. "...Anyone else seeing this holy afterglow, or did I get blessed twice and not notice?"

"I'm blind," Garran Flamecoil announced theatrically, shielding his face. "She's radiant. That's it. Someone propose a divinity meter because I think Selene just broke it."

Arinelle whispered to Mira Snowveil nearby, "Do you think… something happened last night?"

Sorei Windshaper leaned in from the side, smirking. "The question isn't if, it's how divine was it?"

Mira tried to remain composed, sipping tea elegantly. "Ahem. Perhaps she simply prayed especially hard."

"Prayed hard, huh?" Thorne Ironstride said with a booming laugh. "Right, lass. Let's go with that."

Darius, ever stoic, cleared his throat. "Let's not be disrespectful—"

"She's glowing like a sunfruit, Darius," Veyna Lux muttered, arms crossed. "There's divine energy leaking from her cheekbones. This is a Level 5 Blush Emergency."

Even Caelum Dray, usually calm and floating above it all, looked down from the air and casually asked, "Did she fuse with a holy spirit overnight?"

Selene, meanwhile, had walked into the courtyard with full poise—until she noticed every one of her fellow Commanders staring.

And whispering.

And some of them (looking at Garran) dramatically collapsing as if struck by divine radiance.

"…What," she asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Nothing!" several of them replied in unison.

Revyn coughed and muttered behind his scarf, "Did you level up in charm?"

"I can't see straight," Garran added with a groan.

Selene's eyes narrowed suspiciously. "You all are the worst."

"And you're the brightest," Arinelle teased with a giggle. "You could lead an army with that aura alone."

"Maybe she already did," Mira whispered. "A very… private army."

Selene turned away swiftly, but not before her ears turned a bright crimson and a flicker of golden light danced at her feet.

Just then, breakfast was announced. The smell of roasted potatoes, eggs, and fresh herbs filled the courtyard.

Selene muttered something about needing to prepare and fled toward the barracks—but not before half the team trailed behind her humming wedding bells and heavenly hymns.

Scene: Radiance Ascended – Bet Settled, Legends Born

The late morning sun bathed Fort Mythral in golden warmth—but even its glow paled in comparison to the spectacle that emerged from the barracks.

Selene Virellia stepped out, fully adorned in her celestial armor—the Seraphic Aegis – Vestments of the Dawnborne Oath. Her silver hair shimmered like moonlight spun with stardust, cascading over gleaming pauldrons. The radiant wings engraved upon her back armor softly flickered with golden light, responding to each step like living fire dancing beneath holy silk.

Strapped to her back, Regal and Celestial, her divine sword and shield, gleamed with an unearthly sheen. The sword pulsed with quiet power, while the shield mirrored the sky itself—deep azure veined with sunlight, as if she carried a piece of dawn with her.

The training yard fell silent.

Even the clashing of steel stopped.

A single bird chirped once—and then promptly fled.

One soldier dropped his spear and muttered, "...I think I just saw the second coming of the War Goddess."

Another blinked at her and whispered, "Did we get invaded by a walking cathedral?"

Someone tried to bow in reverence but tripped over their own scabbard and faceplanted. No one laughed. They were all too stunned.

Inside the command tent, however…

Chaos.

Pure, joyful, betting chaos.

"I TOLD you they kissed!" Garran slammed a pouch of coins onto the ledger table. "I said: full contact, divine category, at minimum!"

"Wrong," Mira Snowveil said smugly, "I said kiss plus private moment. That's two-tier intimacy—check the wager notes."

"Hold on, hold on—" Cidros Vane, the eternal officiator, flipped the betting scroll open, enchanted to record outcomes under oath. His fingers trailed down until they hit the glimmering runes beside Selene's name.

The glowing words were unmistakable.

"Private Quarters Confirmed."

"Celestial Exchange – Affirmed."

"Morning After Glimpse – Witnessed."

"W-Witnessed!?" Sorei Windshaper squawked, eyes wide.

"I walked by her door this morning and heard humming," Arinelle confessed, blushing. "Happy humming. Selene doesn't hum."

Veyna was already collecting winnings, her smile smug. "Called it. Bet on the blushing knight going radiant rogue."

Revyn silently paid out his coins to Darius, muttering, "I thought he'd wait another week."

"You were naïve," Darius replied, completely straight-faced as he raked in his earnings.

"Can someone tell the soldiers outside to stop kneeling?" Thorne huffed, peeking through the tent flap. "We're running out of reverence rations!"

Back in the yard, Selene stood completely unaware of the unfolding chaos behind her. She walked calmly through the crowd of stunned soldiers, offering a few nods and even a smile. Her radiance pulsed subtly, a divine cadence that made the banners sway despite the still air.

Alter, who had just exited the officer's wing, locked eyes with her.

The moment froze again.

His breath caught slightly. Even he hadn't seen her in full gear yet.

"…You," he murmured softly, his voice lost in awe. "You look like a sovereign of light."

Selene's expression softened, but she simply replied, "I'm your commander now, Master."

Their gazes lingered.

Scene: Beneath the Twin Moons – A Vow Between Light and Shadow

The evening wind carried a hush over Fort Mythral, brushing through the silver-trimmed banners and stirring the lanterns hung above its quiet courtyards. The celebration had ended, and the soldiers had retired, yet in the secluded garden behind the central keep—between marble stones and soft-blossomed trees—two figures remained.

Selene sat beside Alter upon a smooth rock overlooking the moonlit reflecting pool. She wore her newly donned celestial armor, Seraphic Aegis – Vestments of the Dawnborne Oath, which shimmered faintly with holy gold and soft dawnlight hues, as if touched by stars yet never harsh. Her silver hair swayed behind her like strands of starlight, framing her serene features.

She leaned gently against Alter, her slender hands clasping his left arm, her head resting on his shoulder.

Then, her voice rose in elvish song.

It was soft. Melodic. A gentle lullaby that spoke of distant forests, eternal dawns, and the hopes of those who waited. The words weaved with ancient magic not meant to cast spells but to touch the soul. In that moment, the entire world quieted—no footsteps, no torchfire crackle—only her voice echoing in the stillness beneath the twin moons.

Alter didn't say a word.

He simply listened.

His eyes never left her, unmoving, unblinking—as if her voice alone was more powerful than any spell he had known.

When her final note faded like dew upon morning petals, Selene turned her head, only to find him staring at her.

"...Alter?" she whispered.

He didn't answer. Instead, he gently lowered his head. She closed her eyes, and their lips met—a soft kiss at first, then deeper, lasting and full of quiet longing. It carried the weight of past pain and the promise of new beginnings.

When they finally parted, the air still hummed with what had passed between them.

Selene opened her eyes slowly, a rosy blush beneath her silver hair. "Please return soon," she said, her voice trembling slightly.

"I will," Alter replied firmly, his hand brushing her cheek. "This time... no matter what, I'll return. I swear on the twin moons."

They stood from the stone together.

Selene hesitated—but then stepped forward into his arms. They embraced, long and wordless. Alter held her firmly, but made no move to let go first. He waited until she finally loosened her arms and took a half-step back, though her hands lingered at his chest.

She gazed into his eyes and whispered in fluent Elvish, "Nai i Valar nauvar lelya na alya."

(May the gods keep you safe.)

Then came his reply, deep and steady, in Elvish as well:

"Melin le... ar nauvan entulien an sen melme."

(I love you... and I will return to find this love.)

And with that, he vanished—

A flicker of light as his teleportation spell shimmered, leaving only a faint ripple in the evening air.

Selene stood alone now, moonlight trailing across her armor like falling feathers.

But she smiled.

Because for the first time, she didn't feel alone.

Scene: Betting Ledgers and Blushing Knights – The Commanders React

Not long after Alter vanished into light, Selene stood in the courtyard garden a moment longer, composed but still glowing in more ways than one. Her armor shimmered faintly in the moonlight, not just with celestial enchantment—but with something unmistakably emotional.

When she turned and re-entered the main hall of Fort Mythral, the warmth of the night was suddenly overtaken by something else:

A dozen stares.

Twelve.

Twelve incredibly knowing stares.

Each Commander was gathered in the common hall, very pointedly not pretending they weren't waiting for her to return. They were slouched across benches, leaning on banisters, or "casually" sharpening weapons—but every single one looked up in unison when she entered.

Mira Snowveil, leaning her chin over her staff, was the first to speak.

"So," she said with an infuriatingly innocent smile, "did the armor inspection go smoothly?"

Selene blinked. "Wh–what?"

Arinelle Dawnwhisper raised a hand with mock reverence. "The stars above, the glow around you just got brighter. Did he bless you personally?"

Thorne Ironstride chortled from his bench, raising a mug. "Looks like someone's defense stat is maxed out and emotionally fortified."

Selene's cheeks ignited into a vivid rose hue. "W-what are you all—?"

Garran Flamecoil grinned like a fox about to toss a firebomb. "You're literally walking divine proof that 'soul resonance' is real. I'd say the evidence is...blinding."

Selene attempted a dignified sigh—then Revyn Mistclaw, shadow-silent as always, appeared beside her with a blank expression and offered a tiny envelope.

"What's this?" she asked, still flustered.

"Betting results," he said flatly. "You and Master Alter were odds-on favorites."

"What? Betting?!" she gasped.

Darius Coalbrand pounded his fist on the table in hearty laughter. "Of course there was a betting pool! You two have been dancing around each other like celestial peacocks for months!"

Cidros Vane tapped his twin blades thoughtfully. "Frankly, I made a tidy sum. I bet it would happen after the second divine blessing, not before. Timing is everything."

Mira Snowveil waved the envelope teasingly. "Oh, don't worry, Selene. We didn't bet on you... we bet for you."

"It's called commander morale," Sorei Windshaper added with a wink. "And right now? Ours is sky-high."

Selene covered her face with both hands, exhaling in a mortified groan. "You're all insufferable…"

"But also right," Veyna Lux chimed in.

"I hate all of you," Selene muttered through her fingers.

"No you don't," Arinelle sang.

"She's glowing brighter again," Caelum Dray observed, genuinely confused. "Wait, is that a third blush stack?"

Revyn, deadpan as ever, nodded. "Confirmed. Buff duration extended."

The entire hall burst into laughter.

Selene, finally giving up her flustered protest, let out an exhausted chuckle—then allowed herself to smile.

It was warm. It was genuine. And despite the teasing, it was a moment of peace among those who fought, bled, and rose together.